I made Pulled Pork in the Instant Pot?!

I made Pulled Pork in the Instant Pot?! is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Sunday Supper Movement on YouTube.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 60 min | Total: 1 hr 30 min

Cost: $10.32 total, $2.58 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2.5 lb Pork Shoulder Roast (trim excess fat, cut into a single piece)
  • 2 Tbsp Brown Sugar (packed)
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1 tsp Dry Mustard
  • 1 tsp Paprika (smoked paprika works well)
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 2 Tbsp Olive Oil (extra‑virgin recommended)
  • 1 cup Beef Broth (low‑sodium)
  • 1 cup Barbecue Sauce (your favorite brand)

Instructions

  1. Make the seasoning blend

    In a small bowl combine brown sugar, cumin, onion powder, dry mustard, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir until evenly mixed.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Season the pork

    Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Rub the seasoning blend all over the roast, covering every side.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Sear the pork

    Turn the Instant Pot to the Sauté setting, add olive oil, and heat until shimmering. Using tongs, sear the pork on all sides, about 2‑3 minutes per side, until a deep golden crust forms.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: Medium-High

  4. Deglaze the pot

    Turn the Instant Pot off. Pour in the beef broth and, using a wooden spoon, scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

    Time: PT2M

  5. Add barbecue sauce and return pork

    Stir the barbecue sauce into the broth, then place the seared pork back into the pot, submerging it as much as possible.

    Time: PT1M

  6. Pressure cook

    Secure the lid, set the valve to Sealing, and select High Pressure for 40 minutes.

    Time: PT40M

    Temperature: High Pressure

  7. Release pressure

    Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully switch to Quick Release to let out any remaining steam.

    Time: PT10M

  8. Shred the pork

    Remove the pork roast with tongs and place it on a cutting board. Using two forks, pull the meat apart into bite‑size shreds.

    Time: PT5M

  9. Combine shredded pork with sauce

    Return the shredded pork to the Instant Pot and stir to coat evenly with the remaining sauce.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
350
Protein
30g
Carbohydrates
20g
Fat
15g
Fiber
1g

Dietary info: High protein, Contains dairy‑free ingredients, Not vegan

Allergens: Soy (in barbecue sauce), Potential gluten (if BBQ sauce contains wheat)

Last updated: April 16, 2026

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I made Pulled Pork in the Instant Pot?!

Recipe by Sunday Supper Movement

A quick and easy weeknight pulled pork made in the Instant Pot. The pork is seasoned with a sweet‑savory rub, seared for flavor, pressure‑cooked with beef broth, then tossed in barbecue sauce for a tender, juicy result that the whole family will love.

EasyAmericanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
10m
Prep
1h 5m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 25m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$10.32
Total cost
$2.58
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Searing the pork creates a flavorful crust.
  • Deglazing prevents a burn notice and adds depth.
  • Ensuring the lid is sealed before pressure cooking.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can splatter during searing – use a splatter guard if needed.
  • Pressure cookers build high pressure; never open the lid until the valve indicates it is safe.
  • Steam released during quick release can cause burns – keep hands and face away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of pulled pork in American cuisine?

A

Pulled pork originates from the Southern United States, where pork shoulder was slow‑cooked over wood or charcoal pits. The technique of shredding the meat after a long cook became a staple of barbecue culture, especially in North Carolina and Tennessee, and is now a beloved comfort food across the country.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of pulled pork in American barbecue?

A

In Eastern North Carolina the sauce is vinegar‑based and thin, while Western North Carolina favors a tomato‑vinegar blend. Tennessee’s Memphis style adds a sweet‑spicy dry rub, and Kansas City is known for a thick, sweet, molasses‑rich sauce. The Instant Pot version uses a classic sweet BBQ sauce, but you can swap in any regional style.

cultural
Q

How is authentic pulled pork traditionally served in the Southern United States?

A

Authentic pulled pork is typically served on a soft hamburger bun with coleslaw either on top or on the side. It’s often accompanied by pickles, baked beans, and cornbread, making a hearty, communal meal.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is pulled pork traditionally associated with in Southern culture?

A

Pulled pork is a centerpiece at backyard barbecues, family reunions, Fourth of July picnics, and church potlucks. Its make‑ahead nature makes it perfect for large gatherings where guests can serve themselves.

cultural
Q

What other American dishes pair well with Instant Pot pulled pork?

A

Pulled pork pairs beautifully with classic Southern sides such as macaroni‑and‑cheese, collard greens, cornbread, baked beans, and potato salad. It also works great in tacos, nachos, or atop a loaded baked potato.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Instant Pot pulled pork?

A

Common mistakes include not searing the meat (which reduces flavor), forgetting to deglaze (causing a burn notice), and using too little liquid, which can lead to tough pork. Also, avoid over‑cooking; the pork should be tender but not falling apart before shredding.

technical
Q

Why does this Instant Pot pulled pork recipe use a quick sear before pressure cooking instead of starting directly in the pot?

A

Searing creates Maillard browning, adding depth and richness to the final flavor. Starting with a dry‑sear also releases fond that can be deglazed, preventing a burn notice and infusing the broth with savory notes.

technical
Q

Can I make Instant Pot pulled pork ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, the pork can be prepared up to 2 days ahead. Store the shredded pork in its sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it looks dry.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the Instant Pot pulled pork is done?

A

The pork should be fork‑tender, easily pulling apart into fluffy strands. The sauce should cling to the meat, looking glossy and slightly thickened. If the meat resists shredding, it needs a few more minutes under pressure.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Sunday Supper Movement specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Sunday Supper Movement specializes in quick, family‑friendly meals that can be prepared on a weeknight, often using one‑pot or sheet‑pan techniques to minimize cleanup while delivering comforting, home‑cooked flavors.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Sunday Supper Movement's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?

A

Sunday Supper Movement focuses on minimal‑equipment, time‑saving methods like the Instant Pot, and emphasizes dishes that appeal to kids and busy families. Unlike many channels that showcase elaborate plating, this channel prioritizes practicality, flavor, and ease of repeatability.

channel

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